A NOTE ON THE ENERGY EFFICIENCY OF VARIOUS MEANS OF TRANSPORT

Briefly summarizes the results of an investigation of the energy efficiency of various means of transport, based on statistics from Goeteborg, Sweden for 1970-1974. Tables give the data, energy consumption per place kilometre, energy efficiency and actual energy efficiency (in terms of imported oil) for tramways, buses and cars. The period covered is from 1970 to 1974. Figures illustrate losses in the course of energy flow from source to consumer for electricity (and hot water), diesel oil and petrol. The investigation shows that public transport is the most energy-efficient means of transport in Goeteborg. The relative proportions being 1:3:6 respectively for tramways, buses and cars. Decreases in the energy consumption of trams and buses over the period (1970 to 1974) is attributed to improved rights-of-way for trams and new faster bus services. It is also concluded that the increased use of public transport and the replacement of buses on the major routes by trams will result in substantial savings in energy. /TRRL/